Five new projects to improve mental health services for older people have been started - thanks to a £2 million Government grant.

The launch of the Health in Mind schemes, which will develop services to improve the well-being of older people who experience mental health problems, was attended by 240 people at the National Museum of Photography, Film and Television, yesterday.

The Bradford programme will be led by Bradford Council's Social Services Department and the £2.36m grant from the Department of Health's Partnerships for Older People Projects Scheme (POPPS) will provide funding for two years.

Bradford is one of 19 care partnerships to be awarded a share of the £60 million POPPS budget.

The programme is split into five project areas: l Community Involvement Project - encouraging older people to be involved in community activities and attend health cafes'.

l Managed Care Network Project - care professionals working to provide easier access to treatment, support and information.

l Peer Educator Project - a team of 36 University of Bradford-accredited educators will look at mental health practice in local organisations.

l Community Enablement Teams - three home care teams will provide intensive support for older people with mental health needs.

l Telecare Project - special equipment will be provided which will increase safety at home and provide reassurance for families and carers.

Steve Clayton, programme manager for Health in Mind, who works for Bradford Social Services, said: "It is about preventative health care."

Ruth Gallagher, branch manager of the Alzheimer's Society in Bradford, said: "We had a pilot caf at the Reformed Church in Victoria Road, Eccleshill, and it proved very popular. Now we hope to open 12 more cafes."

Chris Ireson, Well-Being Caf officer, said: "We hope the cafes will give people a good social life and a feeling of well-being."

Councillor Martin Smith, the Council's executive member for social care, said: "These projects could really make a difference to people's lives and reduce the feelings of isolation often experienced by people with mental health problems."

Volunteers are being sought to help run the cafes. Anyone who wants to help should call Mrs Ireson on 07734 687237.

e-mail: ali.davies@bradford.newsquest.co.uk